What is an esophagogastroduodenoscopy?
An EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a gastrointestinal procedure where a camera is attached to a long flexible tube or “videoscope,” is placed in the patient’s mouth and helps our GI specialists at GI Alliance of Illinois to effortlessly review the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine.
What are the benefits of an EGD?
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy test is often beneficial for multiple reasons. The exam can enable your GI physician to directly assess the inner structures of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (which is the first part of the small intestine). Additional benefits of an EGD include:
- Aids in identifying a range of gastrointestinal concerns (including gastrointestinal infections like H. Pylori, Ulcers, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, Heartburn-GERD, and others)
- Allows for polyp removal, the biopsy of tissues, and additional small procedures
- Can help discern the causes of GI symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and swallowing issues and anemia.
What can I expect on the day of my EGD?
We will ask you to get to the endoscopy center about 1-1.5 hours before your procedure. You’ll need to change into a procedure gown. An IV will be put in your arm so we can administer sedation medication. You will be connected to equipment that will allow us to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, pulse, breathing, and oxygen level during the EGD.
Once you are settled into one of our comfortable exam rooms, we’ll have you lay on your left side on the exam table. Sedation will then be started. From there, we’ll gently insert the endoscope into your mouth. The endoscope will be carefully advanced under direct vision through your esophagus, stomach, and the first portion of the small intestine. Depending on the findings, and if the doctor needs to take small tissue samples, the exam may take approximately 10 – 20 minutes. Following your exam, you will be taken to one of our private recovery rooms so we can monitor you while the sedation begins to wear off.
When will I get my test results?
After your exam, your GI Alliance of Illinois provider will review the findings of the procedure with you. Many patients won’t remember what they were told later on because they have a foggy brain due to the intravenous (IV) sedation. We recommend you bring a friend or family member with you to this discussion. We can also give you a printed review of what we discussed. In most situations, we’ll provide you with biopsy results in about a week.
Does an EGD carry any risks?
Typically, an EGD, is very safe. Generally, problems develop in less than 1 percent of procedures. Prior to the exam, a consent form will be reviewed with you by our providers. Should you have any questions or concerns, these can be discussed with your provider ahead of your procedure.
